GambiaRising isn't a big non-profit (we have just over 200 regular donors). But we focus on doing the most good possible with every dollar we receive; we also have no paid staff, no offices, almost no overhead (and that is paid by a Board member). But mostly, we have a dedicated, ingenious team of Gambians working in their communities to make the most difference they can in the lives of young Gambians. 

In the hierarchy of making the most difference, keeping a teen-aged girl in school after she reaches "marrying age" (puberty) is at the top of our list. The only thing almost as high is when a community comes to us and says "Our children are not going to school because there is none near enough for them to walk to. We are willing to build ourselves a (mud-block) school. But we don't have funds for some of the materials [mostly cement, corrugate for the roof, doors and windows]". So when our budget for a young student is $40 per year for uniforms, books, and supplies, and a school for 100 students can be built for a one-time cost of less than $4,000 then clearly it is the bargain of the century. Especially because the community members are not asking for annual support (they'll supply their own books and uniforms), and the teachers will be sent (and paid) by the government.  

Over the past five years, we have supported four different communities in the Fulladus of the Central River Region to build such schools.  And in the current school year, 907 children are attending these schools.  And 459 of them are girls.

So when Peace Corps volunteer Harry Dwinell offered to make a short film about one of GambiaRising's projects, we knew just where to direct him: "Tell the story of the people of Sareh Wuring building themselves a school."

Because the project had just become a reality. A returned Peace Corps volunteer now living and working in Ecuador introduced us to World-Connect, who agreed to fund the project. (And when we needed a little extra for desks for the students, GambiaRising's donors provided the rest.)

I want to keep this note short so you are sure to watch Harry's video (see below).  It's just 4 minutes long, and I promise it will make your day.

We know these are not easy times for anyone. It is in just such times that the world's attention moves away from children in small west African countries. We are determined not to let these young people down, no matter how hard it is to keep going. We are so grateful to those whose generosity makes this work possible. So please enjoy this 4-minute film about just one wonderful thing your support has made happen:

Please stay safe.

Mike McConnell
Managing Trustee
GambiaRising
www.gambiarising.org
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Emeryville, CA  94608-3578